Sanitation is especially important in the bathroom of your home. All kinds of germs can live on bathroom surfaces, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Cleaning the bathroom on a regular basis is essential for keeping it hygienic, but you can also take several steps to make it more sanitary without scrubbing and scouring. Touch-free fixtures and new innovations in bathroom technology make it easier than ever to keep your bathroom clean. With these simple bathroom updates, you can prevent germs from spreading.
1. Switch to touchless fixtures.
By using automatic-switching fixtures, you can minimize the amount of time you are in contact with potentially germy bathroom surfaces. Touchless faucets and lights are a good replacement for traditional faucets. With a DIY kit ($68, Amazon), you can even add an automatic flush sensor to your existing toilet. Consider switching to a motion-activated soap dispenser ($50, Bed Bath & Beyond).
2. Swap out bath mats.
Despite the fact that plush bathroom rugs may feel luxurious underfoot, they are breeding grounds for bacteria, mold, and mildew that thrive in these moist environments. A lightweight, quick-drying bath mat is a great alternative to heavy bath mats that can take a long time to dry. Choose cotton, polyester, or wool as your bathroom rug material if you would like it to be absorbent.
Moisture is absorbed by these materials and is wicked away from the body in a short period of time. There are several benefits to using natural bath mats (made from fossilized algae or bamboo) in lieu of fabric bath mats, such as the fact that they are naturally antibacterial. If your soft bath mat does not have a rubber backing, it is recommended that you wash it about every two weeks in hot water to avoid the growth of germs and odors.
3. Install a bidet.
A bidet makes trips to the bathroom more hygienic by providing a more effective clean than toilet paper alone. In just a few minutes, they transform a standard toilet into a bidet by attaching to the seat ($69, Amazon). For extra comfort, some even offer heated seats and warm-water spray functions, as well as hydraulic seats that help prevent germ transmission. Using a cloth instead of a paper towel can also save you money.
4. Protect your toothbrush.
It is possible for toilet flushes and sink splashes to carry bacteria onto your toothbrush if you store it in the open. When you don’t use your toothbrush, store it in a holder that protects the bristles and sterilizes them. With a toothbrush sanitizer, germs and moisture are eliminated by LED lights and heat cycles.
5. Use automatic toilet cleaners.
Whenever you have a cleaning chore on your list that includes cleaning the toilet, there is no need to dread the task of doing so. Every four months, you can automate the cleaning of the toilet by simply popping a tablet into the tank. In order to sanitize your toilet bowl, prevent stains, and reduce the amount of time you have to scrub, you can use Clorox bleach tablets ($9, Amazon) every time you flush.
6. Remove excess moisture.
Mold and mildew can grow in bathrooms with too much moisture in the air. Water can also damage bathroom surfaces. Ensure that the vent fan is on for at least 20 minutes after every shower in order to keep humidity levels under control. You might want to consider turning down the water temperature to reduce steam, and you might want to consider opening a window if possible. Considering keeping DampRid ($32, Amazon) on a counter or back of the toilet to absorb moisture if moisture problems persist. Unlike traditional air fresheners, these canisters contain crystals that absorb and trap moisture to eliminate odors and dampness.
7. Sanitize your shower curtain.
Mold, soap scum, and unattractive buildup can accumulate on shower curtains and liners. There is good news: most fabrics can be washed on a gentle cycle in the washing machine (check the labels first). The antimicrobial liner from Amazon ($11) has over 88,000 five-star ratings, so you can prevent bacteria growth before it starts. Compared to regular liners, it provides four times longer protection against mildew growth and odors.
8. Keep cleaning products nearby.
Keeping bathrooms clean is a must even in the most hygienic environments. Keep all cleaning supplies and tools inside a bathroom cabinet, closet, or other storage area to make cleaning easier. Make a caddy of cleaning service supplies that includes all-purpose cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, rubber gloves, and all the other items you need. It will be easier to clean if you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Is it okay to clean bathroom every 2 weeks?
According to Deco Facts, the bathroom is the ultimate host for bacteria, and E. The sink and toilet are often the source of E. coli bacteria. Make sure you disinfect the toilet, sink, and bathtub at least once a week – more often if you shower frequently – to keep it at bay.
